An efficient and resilient IoT architecture for smart grids via quantum key distribution and multi-homocryption encryption

The integration of IoT with smart grid infrastructure has revolutionized energy distribution by enabling real-time monitoring, automation, and efficient decision-making. However, this increased interconnectivity exposes the system to severe cybersecurity threats, such as unauthorized access, data tampering, and advanced persistent attacks. Traditional cryptographic approaches are proving inadequate in addressing these evolving challenges. To overcome these limitations, this study presents an efficient and resilient IoT architecture for smart grids, incorporating quantum key distribution (QKD) for ultra-secure key exchange and multi-homocryption encryption for multilayered data protection. The proposed solution is built upon the QGAPSO-RoutOpt framework, which synergizes bio-inspired optimization, quantum logic, and software-defined networking (SDN) to enable dynamic and adaptive encryption routing. A novel optimizer, QGAPSO-RoutOpt, is introduced to intelligently fine-tune encryption pathways, reduce communication latency, and enhance overall network responsiveness. The architecture is evaluated using the SG-IoTSim dataset, which models realistic smart grid IoT communication with both benign and malicious traffic patterns. Performance metrics such as key integrity, latency, packet delivery ratio, encryption–decryption overhead and resilience against attacks were rigorously analyzed. Results indicate that the proposed model achieves 97.3% secure key distribution accuracy, a 45% reduction in latency, and 99.1% robustness against cyberattacks, including spoofing and man-in-the-middle intrusions. Additionally, the system maintains high throughput and operational efficiency under dynamic grid conditions. In conclusion, the integration of QKD, multi-homocryption, and the QGAPSO-RoutOpt optimizer offers a secure, scalable, and intelligent solution for modern smart grid IoT systems, paving the way for next-generation energy infrastructure with enhanced trust and resilience.